Dean's Society hears state of education funding

May 9, 2011 -- A Dallas lawmaker took time out from the Legislative session last week to bring members of the Dean's Society up to date on the state of higher education funding in Texas. Rep. Dan Branch, chairman of the House Higher Education Committee, spoke at a reception May 5 hosted by University of Houston Law Center Dean Raymond T. Nimmer at the Bellaire home of Sarah and Denis Braham '79.

Denis Braham '79, left, state Rep. Dan Branch, R-Dallas, and Law Center Dean Raymond T. Nimmer were hopeful about the state of higher education funding at a recent Dean's Society reception.

Branch put his best face forward on education funding despite the state’s budget shortfall and sluggish economy. “We are looking at a 13 percent cut on higher education overall,” he told the gathering. “One of our key issues becomes how to maintain quality and excellence in light of tough budget cycles. The good news is that shrinking budgets make innovation possible.”

Branch said the university’s March recognition by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching with its highest classification for research universities -- equivalent to Tier One designation – is good not only for the school, but for the state as well. “We need high demand venues for people to stay in our great state and help us advance,” he said. And when might UH see some of the dollars set aside by the state to assist emerging research universities? Branch would not say when or how much the university could count on, but compared to other schools in the game, he said, “It looks like UH will cross the goal line first.”

The Dean’s Society recognizes the most generous Law Fund contributors and is reserved for individuals who contribute at least $2,500 per year. Dean’s Society members play a key role in the Law Center’s continued pursuit of a “Top 30” national ranking. Contributions help fund student scholarships, recruiting and placement efforts, support faculty recruiting and research, and facility improvements.

For more information about the Dean’s Society, please contact Leah Gross, Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, at 713.743.2203 or lrgross@central.uh.edu.